10 Reasons to Establish a Substance Free Workplace Program

Employers and employees have a responsibility to contribute to a productive, positive, comfortable and safe work environment. Implementing a drug testing program can help to accomplish these desired outcomes. The following lists the most common reasons employers begin and continue substance free workplace programs.

1. Improves company image. Drug testing increases consumer confidence concerning service and/or product quality, safety, reputation, and employment best practices.
2. Provides a safe workplace for employees. A substance free workplace program can help to reduce on-the-job accidents and crime involving drugs.
3. Complies with laws and regulations. Employers are responsible for understanding and adhering to their local, state and Federal laws. For many safety-sensitive industries, drug testing is required.
4. Reduces healthcare and insurance costs. An enforced drug testing program can assist in avoiding increased costs related to alcohol and drug-related injuries and illness, while helping to lower worker’s compensation exposure and insurance premiums.
5. Improves company morale. Drug testing can help promote a safer and more productive work environment, playing a role in fostering a positive corporate culture.
6. Enhances employee productivity. A drug testing program can also help to reduce absences, tardiness, and employee turnover.
7. Helps employees. Effective drug testing programs can help deter or prevent drug use among employees. Testing can also help to identify those who may need employee assistance or rehabilitation services for a substance use disorder.
8. Protects employees, customers, and the public. Drug testing protects employees, customers, and the public from employees using drugs; it can also help to keep employees safe from harm and employers safe from liability.
9. Prevents hiring candidates who use drugs. Pre-employment drug testing helps to prevent hiring individuals who use illicit drugs in the first place.
10. Keeps employers and employees educated. A well-run drug testing program provides tools and resources employees need to participate and benefit from a substance free workplace, including education about the physical effects of drug use and the nature of abuse and addiction.

Employers should consider their unique business needs, and select elements of a drug testing program that will be most beneficial to their job roles and environment. An effective workplace drug testing policy, combined with proper education, can help employers and employees benefit from a number of advantages.

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